I'd mark this down 1 whole star if it were just the 3DS version vanilla, but I'm generous enough to rate it based on Project Restoration's changes. The original game was a product of raw, unfiltered creativity and sometimes refinement erodes that good instinct. Certain mechanics and bosses were changed for the worse in the name of improving conveyance, while other things were vastly improved (bomber's notebook, hot damn). The aforementioned mod does away with all those cons while keeping the pros.

Also, the graphics are GORGEOUS. As a huge fan of the original, I very much approve the new environmental details. By far and away one of the best looking 3DS games. 2015 was only 8 years ago, yet the landscape was so different back then that we were allowed to have this gem. Yes I have a soft spot for handheld graphics.